Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 2: Agnathon 2K26, an interschool and intercollegiate fest, was held at St Agnes PU College on September 1. The extravaganza was conducted with great panache and enthusiasm. The theme centred on the captivating concept of ‘OBSYCRA—Discover the Unknown,’ and celebrated curiosity, courage, and creativity. It championed the very qualities that spark innovation and turn bold dreams into reality.
The fest was inaugurated by the chief guest, Nicky Pinto, renowned choreographer, performer, and founder of Nicky Pinto Studio and the special guest, Sharvari Acharya, a celebrated model, digital content creator & creative influencer. They were escorted to the venue by a ceremonial guard of honour. Their presence added glitz and glamour to the event, and inspired students to resolutely pursue their ambitions.
The glittering celebrations were defined by the irrepressible energy and dynamism of the youthful participants from various schools and colleges. A serene prayer song and a kaleidoscope of colours from the welcome dance perfectly set the stage for the day’s festivities. This was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries. The unveiling of the trophies was the highlight of the fest, as the auditorium buzzed with excitement as the magnificent symbols of victory were on display.
In his speech the chief guest shared that dreams are not always enough. Hard work is necessary, but rejection and setbacks are a reality. You will face moments where you give everything, but are confronted by failure. But true character is not defined by winning; it is defined by the courage to look back and say “I tried.” He encouraged the participants to view their setbacks not as dead ends, but as crucial off-seasons. Off-seasons are not stop seasons, but challenges, he said.
Sharvari then addressed the students and said that it was a profound honour to return to her alma mater. Walking into the building, she said opened a floodgate of memories and spoke about how she was now a stronger and more evolved version of herself. She advised the students not to compare themselves with others. The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday. Ask yourself, “Are you learning?” “Are you growing?” Are you trying?” That is the only baseline that matters, she said.
Ritu Lobo & Darryl D’Souza compered the inaugural session with finesse and effervescence, Wilena Lewis effusively welcomed the gathering and introduced the guests, while Pranamya Salian rendered the vote of thanks.
The fest was brimming with several exciting competitions and activities designed to challenge and showcase the talents of the students. The events were aligned with the theme of encouraging every participant to look beyond the obvious, challenge assumptions and discover new possibilities.”
The valedictory of the fest was a thrilling event, as all the contenders were on pins and needles and were eager to know the results. Dr Sr Vinora AC, joint secretary, St Agnes Group of institutions; principal Sr Norine D’Souza; vice principal Sr Janet Sequeira; the convenors, Ramya H and Fiona Veigas; PTA vice president, Vinutha D’Souza; PTA joint secretary, Maria Candida Fernandes; PTA members; sponsors Francis Pereira, Unicomfort, Manufacturer of Uniforms, Arjun D’Souza , proprietor of A F D’Souza & sons & Ashwin Enterprises; Student president, Christina Tom; and vice president, Moona Mariyam; sisters of St Agnes Convent; the faculty and students were an intrinsic part of the occasion.
The valedictory session was ably compered by Almaz Kauser, while Shalu Ferrao, the cultural secretary conveyed our heartfelt appreciation to all those whose hearts and minds had woven together the magic that unfolded and transformed the event into a resounding success.
Carmel School Mangaluru won the runners-up trophy and Mount Carmel Central School won the prestigious overall championship at the high school level.
Canara PU College garnered the runners-up trophy while St Aloysius PU College won the impressive overall championship at the pre university level.
Agnathon 2k26 was a clarion call to encourage curiosity, courage, and the pioneering spirit in the youth.